Eggstraordinary effort nets Easter treats for children

We collected a mountain of more than 200 Easter eggs for seriously ill children after being inspired by a staff member who received support from a local charity.

Carl Williams came up with the idea of collecting Easter eggs from staff at our head offices in Birmingham after receiving support from Matt’s Mission, which provides gifts and trips for children with illnesses and disabilities.

Carl’s two-year-old daughter Lexi is currently being treated for three brain tumours after being diagnosed last June and Carl and his family have received vital support from Matt’s Mission, including a trip to the Winter Wonderland at Hyde Park last year.

And with the help of his colleagues at Housing & Care 21, where he works in the lettings team, he has gathered together an impressive 208 Easter eggs which the charity will now distribute to hospices around the city.

Carl said: “I’ve been amazed with the response.

“It’s been really difficult for the family since Lexi was diagnosed last year and Matt’s Mission has given us so much support.

“We wanted to give something back and I came up with the idea of asking around for Easter eggs that we could then give to children at hospices for Easter and put a smile on their faces.

“Everyone has been really supportive and got behind me and I’m so pleased we can make a real difference as I know first hand how important that is.”

Matt’s Mission will distribute the eggs to a number of schools and hospices in the Birmingham area.

Matt Denning, founder of Matt’s Mission, said: “The charity was set up to support people going through very difficult times and to put a smile on their faces.

“This is a fantastic contribution and will make a huge difference to children at the hospices and schools we are donating to.”